HF power for SGV fleet
June 1st 2008

A food manufacturer has invested in 25 self-guided vehicles for one of its UK production facilities. The SGV system, provided by FMC Technologies, replaces an obsolete wire guided AGV system.

The SGVs are capable of transferring more than 100 pallets per hour from production line palletisers to shipping conveyors or ASRS storage conveyors.

Increased capacity has been made possible by a new bank of high frequency chargers from Exide Technologies (CMP Batteries).

Each vehicle is powered by an Exide 'Classic' lead acid battery.

The SGV system and battery charging system work together to ensure vehicles remain charged.

When an SGV approaches a pre-programmed state of battery discharge, it automatically goes to one of eight charging points, positioning itself on a charging plate which is connected to a 48V, single-phase wallmounted charger. SGVs can be recharged within 5h and can 'opportunity charge'. This allows them to automatically dock at a charging station when not in use and receive a fast charge, which enables them to remain in operation around the clock.

More articles from Exide Technologies: